Published 8 days ago • loading... • Updated 6 days ago
Rabies-Positive Bat Found in Anne Arundel County; Health Officials Issue Alert
Health officials urged residents and pet owners to call if they had contact with the bat, saying preventive treatment may be needed.
On August 9, a bat found on Almondberry Drive in Pasadena tested positive for rabies, prompting the Anne Arundel County Department of Health to issue a public alert for anyone who may have had contact with the animal.
Rabies is a fatal disease that spreads through bites, scratches, or contact with infected saliva; because bat bites can be difficult to detect due to their tiny teeth, officials urge caution after any potential exposure.
Anyone who handled, fed, or was attacked by the bat should call the department at 410-222-7254 between 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays, or call 443-481-3140 after business hours.
Authorities advise residents to keep pet rabies vaccinations current and prevent roaming; the department recommends securing outdoor garbage in covered containers and avoiding leaving pet food outside to discourage wildlife.
Experts recommend calling professionals to remove bats from homes rather than attempting removal by hand; a series of vaccines is nearly 100% effective if administered after exposure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.